Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup

Introduction

Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender orzo pasta with the delicate flavor of leeks and the fresh, aromatic brightness of dill. The leeks are sautéed until soft and sweet, then simmered in a flavorful broth, with orzo added to create a hearty, filling soup. The dill infuses the broth with a fresh, herbaceous flavor, making each spoonful light, refreshing, and satisfying.

The first time I made this, I was craving something soothing yet vibrant, and it turned out to be a perfect bowl of comfort! The leeks provide a subtle sweetness that complements the soft orzo, while the dill adds a lovely herbal note that elevates the whole dish. What I love most about Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup is how it’s both light and filling, making it a great option for a wholesome lunch or dinner. You can also easily customize it by adding extra veggies like carrots or potatoes, or even a protein like chicken for a more substantial meal. It’s a perfect cozy soup for any season!

Perfect for:

Light lunches
Quick weeknight dinners
Spring and summer meals
Soup lovers looking for a twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup will become your go-to comfort dish:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Fresh and Aromatic: The leeks and dill infuse the soup with a bright, herbal flavor.
Hearty and Satisfying: Orzo pasta adds substance to this light soup.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or a starter for a larger meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and herbs for a nutrient-rich option.
Customizable: Adjust seasonings or add protein like chicken or shrimp to suit your preferences.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this a favorite for weeknight cooking.
Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for warm weather but comforting on chilly days.
Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and small pasta make it appealing to kids.
Elegant Enough for Guests: A simple yet sophisticated option for entertaining.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Soup Base:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium leeks, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
2 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Herbs and Flavorings:

¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon

Optional Garnish:

Fresh dill sprigs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon slices

Ingredient Highlights

Fresh Dill: Adds a bright and herbal note to the soup.
Leeks: Provide a subtle, sweet onion flavor that forms the soup’s base.
Orzo Pasta: Small and tender, perfect for light soups.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Enhance the flavors with a fresh citrusy touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Prep the Leeks: Slice the leeks thinly, then rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
Mince the Garlic: Chop garlic finely for a fragrant base.

Cook the Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Add the Stock: Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Spinach (Optional): Stir in baby spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Finish with Herbs and Lemon:

Season the Soup: Stir in fresh dill, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with dill sprigs, Parmesan cheese, or lemon slices if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup:

With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a slice of toasted sourdough or baguette.
As a Starter: A light beginning for a multi-course meal.
With Grilled Chicken: Pair with grilled chicken for added protein.
With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements the soup’s flavors.
For a Picnic: Pack it in a thermos for an elegant outdoor meal.
With Feta Crumbles: Add a sprinkle of feta for a Mediterranean twist.
As a Comfort Meal: Perfect with a blanket and a good book on rainy days.
As a Detox Meal: Light and nutrient-packed, ideal after indulgent meals.
For Meal Prep: Store portions in jars for an easy lunch option during the week.

Additional Tips

Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Cook the orzo separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Leek Prep Hack: Slice the leeks lengthwise and rinse under running water to remove hidden dirt or sand trapped in the layers.
Add a Citrus Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end will brighten the soup and enhance the dill’s fresh flavor.
Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt, heavy cream, or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, chickpeas, or white beans for extra protein.
Flavor Foundation: Sauté the leeks with a bit of garlic and onion before adding broth for a deeper flavor base.
Dill Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of dill, substitute it with parsley, tarragon, or even fresh chives.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the soup without the orzo, then add freshly cooked orzo when reheating for a fresh texture.
Broth Upgrade: Use homemade vegetable or chicken stock for a richer, more robust flavor.
Crunchy Garnish: Top each bowl with toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

Recipe Variations

Chicken Orzo Soup: Add cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier option.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable stock and skip the Parmesan for a plant-based version.
Herb Swap: Replace dill with parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tomato Orzo Soup: Stir in diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangy twist.
Cheesy Upgrade: Top with freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Gruyère cheese.
Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or clams for a coastal-inspired soup.
Creamy Leek Soup: Blend the leeks before adding the orzo for a smoother texture.
Lemon Orzo Avgolemono: Whisk in eggs for a Greek-inspired variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute rice.

Special Equipment

Large Soup Pot – Ideal for simmering the soup and evenly cooking the ingredients.
Chef’s Knife – For chopping leeks, dill, and other vegetables precisely.
Cutting Board – A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
Fine-Mesh Strainer – Useful for rinsing the orzo to remove excess starch.
Wooden Spoon – Perfect for stirring the soup without scratching the pot.
Microplane or Zester – To add finely grated lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor.
Immersion Blender – Optional, for blending part of the soup for a creamier texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurement of broth, orzo, and seasonings.
Ladle – For serving the soup neatly into bowls.
Herb Scissors – For easily chopping dill and other fresh herbs.

FAQ Section

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe work well as substitutes.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, but cook the orzo separately and add it after reheating to avoid mushiness.
What can I use instead of fresh dill?
Dried dill can be substituted—use 1 teaspoon per tablespoon of fresh dill.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
Add more stock or water if the orzo absorbs too much liquid.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, use vegetable stock and skip any cheese-based garnishes.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding extra stock to maintain the desired consistency.
Can I make this soup creamier?
Stir in a splash of cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk before serving.
What’s the best way to clean leeks?
Slice them, then soak in a bowl of cold water, swishing to remove dirt and grit.

Conclusion

Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup is a light yet comforting dish that combines the soft texture of orzo pasta, the delicate sweetness of leeks, and the refreshing, herby flavor of dill. The leeks are sautéed until tender, releasing their mild onion flavor, and then simmered in a savory broth, which serves as the perfect base for the orzo to cook in. The dill adds a bright, aromatic finish to the soup, elevating the flavors and providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the broth.

This soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed year-round. It’s simple to make, yet full of flavor, and the combination of orzo and leeks gives it a hearty feel without being heavy. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for an extra pop of brightness or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savory touch.

I can’t wait to see how your Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!